Published 4:00 am, Sunday, October 6, 2013

As Saginaw Valley State University commemorates 50 years, Dylan Kosaski, president of SVSU’s Student Association, said 2013 is definitely a year to not only remember the institution’s history but also a time to celebrate its future.

“I feel that this is a year to celebrate those who have contributed to the university. It is a year to celebrate those who have graduated from this university and have carried on to live a life of success,” Kosaski said. “It is a year to celebrate all of the students today, who are showing their Red Pride in everything they do. Most importantly, it is a year to be proud to be a Cardinal.”

Kosaski said he is certain that many others would agree that the institution has come a long way since 1963. “I know I will definitely be looking forward to seeing many more anniversaries to come,” he added.

Kosaski feels fortunate to have found what he refers to as “the perfect fit” at SVSU for his college experience.

“It’s small enough to get one-on-one interactions with your professors and peers. However, it’s also big enough that I am meeting new people everyday,” he said. “I have had nothing but great experiences in my time at SVSU. Another thing that makes SVSU a great place is all of the opportunities it has to offer.”

Those opportunities have allowed Kosaski to travel to Washington, D.C., for a service trip and the 2012 Inauguration and also allowed him to speak at high school leadership seminars, providing him with real-world experiences that will benefit his future.

One key step to the university’s success over the years would have to be the fact that the leadership at SVSU at an administrative level is very inclusive, Kosaski explained.

“I feel as though anyone who has a genuine interest in any matter pertaining to SVSU is able to get their views to the leaders who can, in turn, make an impact or change at our institution,” he said. “I have personally brought up many issues with various administrators ranging from Campus Facilities and Student Life all the way to President Eric Gilbertson. I have always left each respective office feeling as though all of my concerns had been well received. This is a very good quality to have in an institution.”

To read more about SVSU celebrating 50 years, see the special section inserted in today’s Daily News.